Sodium bisulfate concentration question

artificialj

artificialj

Joined
Dec 9, 2010
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Hey guys, so I've decided to give sodium bisulfate a go for removing forge scale, and was wondering if anyone had some advice on concentration for mixing this stuff? I have a canister of sodium bisulfate powder for pool pH balancing, and have no idea how much powder I should be mixing per volume of water. Any help?

Also, I'm assuming a sealed PVC tube (like I use for vinegar) is the correct storage vessel for this?

Thanks much!
 
I just make up a somewhat saturated solution. BTW make sure you have good ventilation when you put steel in, it outgasses a bit and the fumes are not pleasant

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One cup of Sodium Bi-sulfite to one gallon of water makes a stock solution. Dilute this as needed for use. You can use it from straight to a 1:1 dilution.
The normal concentration is about 10%.
 
Just wanted to update this and say thanks thanks Page and Stacy. Why the hell did I ever use vinegar? This works unbelievably well. Just washed the scale off 5 knives, and it's actually smooth raw steel, as opposed to vinegar, which always seemed to leave a layer of scale bonded to the blade, no matter how long the soak.
 
You can also use it as a "discovery etch" for looking at the pattern in your damascus while you are working since it will show etch differentials but not really dig in, just be sure to rinse before heating or grinding

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darrin sanders said:
I may have to get some and try it. How long did you soak the blades?
Click to expand...

Well, haha, sort of forgot they were in there, so I ended up soaking them for about 18 hours. I'm guessing, from the ease with which the forge scale just wiped off, that I didn't need to have them in there anywhere near that long. I will put some more in today, and try to see how long I actually needed to soak, and post an update.
 
I ended up going with Stacy's 1 cup per gallon, as I have no faith in my understanding of when something becomes "saturated." :P

Also, did not get around to putting anything in today, was too cold and wet for me to do anything but sleep on the couch. Will update with soak times soon, weather permitting.
 
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